TUMWATER, WA—With more than 30 years in public service, Tumwater’s new City Administrator, Paul Simmons brings deep municipal experience and a long track record of leadership in local and regional government. 

Simmons brings a wide breadth of familiarity with government administration, including work with county and city governments, nonprofit organizations, military bases, universities and parks.   

He previously served as Olympia’s Parks, Arts and Recreation Director from 2013–2025. Most recently, he has been the Director of Business Administration and Planning for Metro Parks Tacoma, where he oversees Finance, Information Technology, Human Resources, Planning, and Marketing and Communications.

“Paul’s familiarity with our region, his ability to lead executive teams, secure funding, and work across departments—and his skill at telling the story of a community’s vision and turning it into action—align perfectly with what we need in this role,” said Mayor Leatta Dahlhoff.  

City Administrator Simmons will begin work with Tumwater on January 16. Simmons will take up the role held by former City Administrator Lisa Parks, who was appointed by former Mayor Debbie Sullivan. 

“Paul’s leadership, experience, passion, and collaborative approach will be tremendous assets to the City,” added Dahlhoff. “I am excited he is joining Tumwater and bringing his love of community and vision on maintaining a quality of life where everyone in Tumwater can thrive. Get ready for a new chapter.”